Selfheal

Selfheal, or heal-all, refers to Prunella vulgaris, a perennial herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It features creeping stems, opposite leaves, and dense spikes of purple flowers. The common name self-heal reflects its traditional use of the crushed plant to treat wounds and skin ailments.

Native to Europe and Asia, with introductions in North America, Prunella vulgaris grows in meadows, pastures, lawns, and damp grassy areas, often spreading by runners. It is a low-growing plant that can form mats in suitable habitats and is frequently found in temperate regions worldwide.

The plant produces square stems and dense flower heads, and contains a range of chemical compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils. Laboratory studies have reported anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral activities for some of its constituents, but clinical evidence for specific medical benefits remains limited.

In traditional medicine, selfheal has been used for wound healing, skin inflammations, sore throat, and fever, and is employed in systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda as an herbal remedy. It is also cultivated ornamentally as ground cover or in herb gardens. Safety data are limited, and it should not be relied on as a substitute for proven medical treatments.

Cultivation and ecology: It grows best in moist, well-drained soil with partial shade; it spreads slowly by stolons and can naturalize in suitable climates. It is valued in gardens for its evergreen foliage and resilience in a range of landscapes.